Welcome to Third Grade!

                     Mrs. Hines

                     2009-2010                          

What are we learning during August?

Your child has been busy learning how good readers make predictions, ask questions and make connections to help them pay attention during reading.  Our decoding focus has been on short and long vowel patterns.  I am looking forward to breaking into small group work in literacy during the last part of August.  The students will work on the computer, receive small group instruction on their level with me, and work independently on a weekly activity packet on their level.  In writing, we have learned how to create a "beginning with a bang" using one of four techniques:  an action, a sound, a thought or question, and dialogue or an exclamation.  We have also learned how to use a plan as a way of thinking through all of the story elements before starting to write.  In math, we have worked on solving addition and subtraction problems.  Some of us are still working on regrouping but we are getting better every day!  Our social studies focus has been on recognizing how citizens show responsibility.  The students really enjoyed creating compost bags as we continue to investigate the properties of soil this quarter in science.  We have had a wonderful start to our year.  Thank you for all of your support at home.